Why visit South Africa in winter?

We often find ourselves asking the question whether or not we need a getaway during winter. There are mixed feelings about this question! The we go on and ask “Why visit South Africa in winter?” Now, we have an answer to that question.

Whale WatchingPlettenberg Bay Accommodation_ Redbourne Country Lodge_ Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the most popular thing to do during the South African winter.  Between June and November a host of whales migrate to the Cape Coasts and the North Coast of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa and up to 37 whale and dolphin species can be found in the waters of South Africa. Hermanus, Plettenberg Bay and St Lucia are the best whale watching spots where you can even partake in an ocean and marine life safari and encounter these marine beasts up close and other marine creatures altogether.

Kruger National Park

Image credit- Dren Pozhegu
It is a fact that wild animals tend to roam freely in winter and this is when you get the best chances of spotting some of the rarest of them. In South Africa, Kruger National Park, Africa’s largest game reserve, is the ideal destination for a winter safari. Not only will you enjoy the sightings of the wild, but the beauty of  the atmosphere, biodiversity and natural and historical sites are overwhelming in winter. You won’ want to leave.

Wine tasting 

Franschhoek Accommodation

A real winter warmer that one! An excellent glass of red wine paired with fondue or a thick juicy steak in winter keep the cold away. With a host of  wine farms and cellars, some still emerging in the country, wine tasting makes a perfect winter activity, enjoyable either in the afternoon or in the evening. Wine cellar tours are also enjoyable. Make a trip to the Cape Winelands, where you can experience authentic winery excursions, and weather you are in Route62 or in the actual Cape winelands, the experience is the same and overwhelmingly incredible.

Matroosberg

matroosberg_ things to do_venues4africa_blog

Known to be the tallest mountain in the Boland region, the Matroosberg mountain is a popular winter attraction as it is one of the few places that experiences snow in winter in South Africa. Abounding activities for families as well as bigger groups include 4×4 drives, quad biking, fishing, ice climbing, abseiling, cherry picking and farm tours in the area. Treat yourself and your family to an unforgettable and eventful winter vacation.

The Clarens Route

maluti mountains_clarens route_ things to do_ venues4africa_blog

A 3 hour drive from Johannesburg and tucked in the Maluti Mountains sits the quaint “The Jewel of the Free State”,  Clarens. The little village overlooks fertile and stunning landscapes and Lesotho is visible in a distance from here. The famous Golden Gate Highlands National Park  is just outside the village and is renowned for its rare sandstone cliffs which turn golden in the rays of the setting sun. For those seeking an alternative lifestyle, Clarens quiet and serene, picturesque while offering various outdoor ventures, such as birding, hiking trails, horse riding, 4×4 trails, trout and bass fishing, golf, to name a few.  The Clarens Route makes a perfect escape for or the log cabin, crackling fire and woolly-blanket-lover.

Stay in the loop with all the happenings in South Africa with Venues4Africa.

5 Travel Rules

If you are looking to take a break and really want to unplug and detach from your daily life,  there are 5  travel rules you need to abide by to get the most of your experience.

1. Travel with someone you love

There is no point in sharing a special moment with someone that does not add value to your life, or at least someone that doesn’t’ share your passion or have the same dreams as you. If you do, you will regret this time wasted. activities_ travel_ blog_ venues4africa

2. Collect moments not things

Things wear out, they get lost, they lose importance and value with time, at some point you will even forget you ever collected something. But moments will always stay attached to your mind and the memories are unforgettable. Take loads of pictures, loads of selfies, capture every moment.

3. Indulge

Be adventurous and try something you’ve never done before. Try skydiving, bungee jumping, shark cage diving, whatever it is you choose to do, be sure it gets your blood rushing. Eat a lot and drink a lot- otherwise there no point of travelling in the first place. And don’t hesitate to try the weird food too!things to do_travel-blog_venues4africa

4. Don’t regret anything

If you spend too much money and go over your budget – don’t regret it, because it’s money well-spent. Remember travelling is not about money, it’s about courage. Do and see everything you possibly can and make sure you do not regret not having done something – that will just be a total waste of time and energy.

5. Share the experience

Be sure to always have your smartphone or tablet with you. Take pictures of the food, the drinks, the places that you get to see and post them on social media. Check in at every place you visit – believe it or not, people want to see those pictures and want to know where you’ve been. things to do_ travel_ selfies_ venues4africa

Stay in the loop with our blog and get the most exciting information about travelling in Southern Africa.

Safari in South Africa

Making the decision to go on a safari in South Africa? Wise choice! There are so many reasons why a South African safari is always the best. Besides being home to the world famous Kruger National Park, you are spoiled for choice, no matter which province you choose to go. Here is a snippet of what to expect.

Safari -in_ South_Africa_Kruger-National-Park_ Venues4AfricaThe Eastern Cape is always a good place to start. The Amakhala Game Reserve is one of the best. Known for its abundant wildlife and birdlife, you are sure to enjoy a true African Safari here. Game drives, boat cruises, short guided hikes,  archery are all exciting activities available, and if you prefer to relax,  rejuvenating spas are available.

Safari -in - South -Africa-Amakhala- River- Cruise-Venues4Africa

Of course, you can never go wrong with the notorious Madikwe Game Reserve. Nestled in the North West province, against the border with Botswana, it is the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa. It is situated in a malaria free area and boasts an abounding 300 species of birds, the Big Five and lots of conservation programmes.

Endless possibilities await you! Start planning your Safari in South Africa and find your destination with Venues4Africa.

Stay tuned to see our newest members of  our growing Venues4Africa family.

Explore South African Safari

Safari

South Africa is blessed with amazing wildlife and luxurious safari accommodation to match.

Book your South African safari getaway with us today and enjoy the sights of the big 5 and picturesque beauty of the African planes. 

Hlosi Game Lodge

Karongwe River Lodge

ONGUMA TREE TOP CAMP

garanga safari lodge

Makweti Safari Lodge Sibani Lodge